How to Fix Fingerprint Sensor Not Working on Android Device

A smartphone with a fingerprint sensor is convenient, allowing users to unlock their device and access apps and data with just a touch. However, things may not always go smoothly, as fingerprint sensors can sometimes malfunction.

If you use an Android smartphone, you may have encountered this problem. But don't worry—we're here to explain and fix it. This guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve problems associated with a non-working fingerprint sensor, whether it's not recognizing your fingerprint or failing to respond.

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Why is My Fingerprint Sensor Not Working?

Before diving into the solutions for fixing the fingerprint sensor which does not work. There are a few common reasons:

Dirty Sensor: The dirty, dusty, and moisturized fingerprint sensors can prevent the sensor from working correctly.
Wet Fingers: If your finger is wet or oily, the fingerprint sensor might not be able to recognize your fingerprint.
Software Bugs: Sometimes, a bug can cause issues with the fingerprint sensor in Android phones.
Hardware Issues: Physical damage can cause problems with fingerprint recognition.
Incorrectly Set Up Fingerprint: If your fingerprints were not properly entered, it can be difficult for the sensor to recognize them.

Solutions for Fingerprint Sensor Issues

1. Clean The Fingerprint Sensor

The first step is to clean your fingerprint sensor properly as it can be covered with dust, dirt, or oil. This can solve the problem of the sensor's inability to read your fingerprint properly.

Here’s how to clean your fingerprint sensor:

You can use a microfiber or a soft cloth.
Gently wipe the fingerprint sensor to remove all the dust and moisture.
You can also use a small amount of water on a damp cloth (without using harsh chemicals) to clean the sensor.

2. Dry Your Fingers

Sometimes, the issue might not be with the sensor but with your fingers. If your fingers are too wet, sweaty, or oily, the sensor might fail to recognize your fingerprint. Here’s what you should do:

Wash your hands with soap and water, then use a clean towel to dry your fingers and palms thoroughly.
If your palms are sweaty, wait a few minutes for them to dry, or wipe them with a soft cloth.

After drying your fingers, try using the fingerprint sensor again and check if it works properly.

3. Re-Register Your Fingerprint

If cleaning the sensor and drying your fingers didn't solve the problem, try re-registering your fingerprint. Sometimes, the initial fingerprint registration may not have been successful, or the sensor may fail to read it properly.

To change or re-register your fingerprint:

Open the Settings on your Android phone.
Scroll down and tap on Biometrics and Security or Fingerprint Recognition (this may vary depending on your phone’s model).
Click on Fingerprint Recognition, and then select the option to delete existing fingerprints.
After deleting one, tap Add Fingerprint and follow the instructions to register it again.

During registration, make sure to place your finger on the sensor at different angles multiple times to get a good scan. After re-registering your fingerprint, check if the sensor works. This usually solves the issue of incorrect fingerprint registration.

4. Restart Your Phone

Sometimes, restarting your phone can fix software-related issues, including problems with the fingerprint sensor. If there’s a glitch, a restart might resolve it.

To restart your phone:

Press and hold the Power button for a few seconds.
Tap on Restart or Reboot.
Wait for the phone to restart and then check if the fingerprint sensor is working.

How to Fix Fingerprint Sensor Not Working on Android Phone

5. Update Your Phone’s Software

Another solution is to update your phone's software. Manufacturers often release updates that fix bugs and improve functionality, including fingerprint sensor performance. If your fingerprint sensor isn’t working, outdated software might be the cause.

To check for updates:

Go to Settings on your Android phone.
Scroll down and tap on Software Update or System.
Click on Check for Updates.

If an update is available, download and install it, then restart your phone. After the update, check if the fingerprint sensor works again.

6. Check Fingerprint Sensor Settings

Some phones let you configure custom settings for the fingerprint sensor. It's possible that a setting is enabled or disabled, causing the sensor to malfunction. To check and adjust these settings:

To reset fingerprint sensor settings:

Open the Settings app.
Navigate to Biometrics and Security or Fingerprint Recognition.
Check if there are options to adjust sensitivity, lock settings, or enable/disable the fingerprint sensor.

Adjust any settings that could be affecting the sensor's functionality.

7. Clear The Cache And Data of the Fingerprint App

If none of the above steps helped, the next step is to clear the cache and data for the fingerprint sensor app. Cached data can sometimes cause issues in certain apps, including the fingerprint sensor app.

To clear the cache and data:

Go to Settings on your phone.
Tap on Apps or Applications.
Find the Fingerprint Sensor or Biometrics app in the list of apps.
Tap on the app and select Storage.
Tap on Clear Cache and Clear Data.

After this, turn off your phone, then try to set up your fingerprint again.

8. Hardware Issues

If your fingerprint sensor is still not working after all these steps, there may be a hardware issue. In this case:

Visit a professional service center.
Contact your phone manufacturer for assistance.
If your phone is still under warranty, you may get a free repair or replacement.

Conclusion

If your fingerprint sensor is not working on your Android phone, don’t panic. You can try a few simple solutions such as cleaning the sensor, drying your fingers, or updating your phone’s software. If none of these work, try re-registering your fingerprint or clearing the app cache.

If the issue persists, it might be time to reach out to customer support or take your device to a professional repair center. Hopefully, one of these solutions will resolve the problem and get your fingerprint sensor working again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many fingerprints can I register on my phone?

Most Android devices allow you to register 3 to 5 fingerprints. Check your phone’s settings to see how many fingerprints your device supports.

Does the fingerprint sensor wear out over time?

Yes, fingerprint sensors can wear out after years of use. This is especially true if they are often exposed to dust, moisture, or scratches. If your sensor becomes less responsive, you may need a professional repair.

Can I use my fingerprint sensor with wet hands?

No, most fingerprint sensors struggle to recognize wet or sweaty fingers. Dry your hands and the sensor before trying again.

Can I use a different finger if my registered one gets injured?

If you injure your registered finger (like with a cut or burn), the sensor may not recognize it. That’s why it is a good idea to register many fingers in your phone settings.

Does enabling the fingerprint lock slow down my phone?

No, fingerprint authentication is designed to be fast and does not slow your phone down. But if your phone is lagging, it could be due to other software issues, not the fingerprint sensor itself.

Is my fingerprint data stored online or shared with others?

No, your phone stores fingerprint data in an encrypted format to ensure security. It is not uploaded to the cloud or shared with other apps.